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Biden signs TikTok bill into law, starting clock for ByteDance to divest (theverge.com)

819 points by vyrotek · 843 days ago · 1694 comments on HN

Article summary

President Joe Biden has signed a bill into law that requires ByteDance, the China-based parent company of TikTok, to divest the app within a year to avoid an effective ban in the US. The bill was passed as part of a foreign aid package and gives ByteDance an initial nine months to sort out a deal, with the possibility of a three-month extension. TikTok plans to challenge the law in court, which could delay enforcement. The company's algorithm and user data are key concerns in the potential sale.

Main themes

  • TikTok ban
  • ByteDance divestment
  • US-China relations
  • National security concerns
  • Social media regulation

What commenters say

  • The ban on TikTok is unlikely to completely stop the app's functionality, but rather force a change in ownership to a non-China-based company.
  • The US government has the authority to regulate interstate and international commerce, including banning foreign companies, under Article 1 Section 8 of the Constitution.
  • Some argue that the bill is an unconstitutional ban, while others claim it is a necessary measure to address national security concerns.
  • The ban may not be effective in stopping TikTok's use in the US, as users could potentially access the app through non-US servers or alternative means.
  • The sale of TikTok's algorithm and user data is a key concern, with some doubting that ByteDance would be willing to part with these valuable assets.
  • The US government's ability to enforce the ban is questioned, with some arguing that it would be difficult to block the app's use without also blocking other services.
  • The ban is seen as a threat to free speech and online expression, with some arguing that it sets a dangerous precedent for government regulation of social media.
  • The effectiveness of the ban in achieving its intended goals is uncertain, with some arguing that it may drive users to alternative platforms or encourage the development of new social media apps.